Sure! Here's a simple recipe for a classic garden salad:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as lettuce, spinach, arugula, or any greens of your choice) - 1 cucumber, sliced - 1 large tomato, diced - 1 bell pepper (any color), diced - 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced - 1/4 cup sliced olives (black or green), optional - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or shredded cheddar cheese, optional - Salt and pepper to taste For the dressing: - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard - 1 clove garlic, minced (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the salad dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, sliced cucumber, diced tomato, diced bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced olives (if using). Toss gently to mix everything together.
3. If you're adding cheese to your salad, sprinkle the crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese over the salad.
4. Drizzle the prepared salad dressing over the salad, starting with a small amount and adding more as needed. Toss the salad gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
5. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
6. Serve the salad immediately as a side dish or as a light main course.
Enjoy! Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favorite ingredients, such as avocado, nuts, seeds, or grilled chicken or shrimp, to make it even more delicious and satisfying.
